5 places in Bali to discover away from the big crowds
I’m not gonna lie, Bali has become a bit of a busy place over the last years. I’ve heared many concerns from people asking me “if they should go to Bali because they were told it’s getting really touristy”
I agree and disagree.
Yes, some places are really really busy like Kuta, Seminyak, Denpasar and even Canggu (altho I like the vibrant vibe in Canggu). But Bali has so much more to offer than these places and you can still find authentic, unspoiled places and get off the beaten track!
Therefor I’ve listed 5 places, away from the big crowds, for you to discover!
MENJANGAN ISLAND
Menjangan Island is a small gorgeous island and secluded paradise situated in the heart of the West Bali National Park on the island's North West coast. It’s a paradise for those who enjoy snorkling, diving, exotic fish and stunning coral reefs.
Fun fact: Menjangan actually means ‘deer’ and the island is full of them! So don’t be suprised running into one during your trip!
You can reach Menjangan island in a 30 to 40 minute boattrip from Pemuteran/Labuhan Lalang.
HOTEL TIP: Menjangan Dynasty Resort (beach/glamping resort)
photo credit: timur_angin
Photo credit Victor.witt
AMED
Amed is a ‘sleepy’ fishing town situated in the Karangasem Regency, North East Bali, close to Mount Agung (the largest volcano in Bali). Because of the proximity of the volcano, many beaches in the area have black volcanic sand.
Amed is great if you:
want to unwind (lots of yoga places)
like freediving, snorkeling or diving
want to explore some of the other authentic villages in the area: Jemeluk, Bunutan, Lipah, Selang, Banyuning and Aas.
take a hike on Mount Agung
To give u an idea: Amed is a +/- 3 hour drive from the airport.
photo crfedit: vilagkalauz
Photo credit: aworld2explore
SIDEMEN
Sidemen is an undiscovered paradise in the middle of the rice fields in Eastern Bali (Karangasem regency) and this is the place where u can connect with the traditional village life. You’ll get to experience the authentic Bali, as it used to be before the trendy coffee shops, swarms of tourists and traffic jams.
If you’re not into rice fields , this isn’t the place for you, because you are pretty much surrounded by them ;)
Things to do in (and close to) Sidemen:
Water rafting at the Telaga Waja River
Rice fields hikes :)
Mount Agung hike
Pay a visit to Tenganan, one of the oldest Balinese Traditional Villages that’s famous for its well-preserved village layout and the ongoing survival of its traditional craft
HOTEL TIP. Samanvaya it’s an absolute STUNNING hotel, make sure to check it out!
photo credit: Alex_mougin
photo credit: pdionysso
MUNDUK
Munduk is a small mountain village in central North Bali. Compared to the rest of Bali, the climat is cooler and there’s more rain in this region (it’s SO GREEN!!). The village is tucked away in a lush jungle surrounded by various waterfalls. So you can guess it already….Munduk is ideal for mountain trekking and chasing waterfalls (3 to be exact)!!
One of the most amazing accomodations is located in Munduk: The Munduk Moding Plantation. The MMP is world famous for its infinity pool with spectacular views. I strongly advice to check it out!
photo credit: akenziefaithill
Munduk Moding Plantation - Photo credit: allons.voyager
VIRGIN/ PERASI BEACH, KARANGASEM, EAST BALI
Looking for an unspoiled, undiscovered, stunning white sand beach? I got you!
Pasir Putih Beach, also known as Virgin beach, White sand beach or Perasi beach, is one of the island's rather ‘hidden’ beaches. It’s located between 2 hills and the villages of Bugbug and Perasi in East Bali.
Can’t say much more about this place! Get there before the masses discover it!
Photo credit: miss.travelocity
